Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines provide a steady stream of air to help individuals with sleep apnea breathe during sleep. Concerns have arisen regarding whether these devices could lead to reinfection with viruses like SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, or contribute to its spread within a household. Understanding how viruses interact with CPAP machines and implementing proper hygiene practices can help alleviate these worries and ensure safe usage.
How Viruses Interact with CPAP Machines
Respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, primarily spread through airborne particles and droplets. A CPAP machine, by delivering a continuous airflow, can potentially aerosolize exhaled air, meaning it can disperse tiny virus-laden particles into the surrounding environment.
Virus particles from an infected individual’s breath can settle on various CPAP components, such as the mask, tubing, and water chamber. Studies indicate that SARS-CoV-2 can survive on plastic and stainless steel surfaces for up to 72 hours, though its viability decreases over time. However, reinfection from one’s own CPAP machine is unlikely because the body typically develops an immune response.
The virus does not replicate within the CPAP machine itself. The primary concern, therefore, shifts to the potential for an infected user’s machine to facilitate the transmission of the virus to other household members through dispersed aerosols.
Using Your CPAP During and After COVID-19
If you are actively infected with COVID-19, continuing CPAP use should involve a discussion with your healthcare provider, especially if you experience severe symptoms or require hospitalization. CPAP machines can aerosolize viral particles, increasing the risk of transmission to others in close proximity. Therefore, if you must use your CPAP while infected, strict isolation from household members is advised.
Consider sleeping in a separate, well-ventilated room to minimize exposure to others. After the active infection phase, and once symptoms have resolved and isolation guidelines are met, it is safe to resume normal CPAP use. Continuing to monitor your symptoms and following public health recommendations for ending isolation will guide your return to regular habits. Protecting household members remains a priority, so maintaining good ventilation in shared living spaces is beneficial.
Keeping Your CPAP Virus-Free
Maintaining rigorous hygiene for your CPAP equipment helps mitigate the risk of virus transmission. Daily cleaning of the mask, headgear, and water chamber with mild soap and warm water is recommended. The tubing should be cleaned weekly using the same method, and all components should be allowed to air dry completely before reassembly. Following the manufacturer’s specific cleaning instructions ensures proper care and longevity.
After an illness, or periodically for general disinfection, a more thorough cleaning can be considered. Some manufacturers offer specific disinfectants or cleaning devices, but simple soap and water cleaning is often sufficient for routine viral concerns. CPAP machines also utilize filters; disposable filters should be replaced every two to four weeks, while reusable foam filters typically require washing weekly and replacement every six months. Ensuring good room ventilation by opening windows or using air purifiers can further reduce airborne particle concentrations.